I will rather lose my job to AI than my dad

Abstract

This essay critically examines the evolving discourse on artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous driving, contextualized through a personal and philosophical lens.The discussion is framed by Hubert Dreyfus’s critique of AI, which likened early research efforts to alchemy— pursuing grand promises without fully understanding the nature of intelligence. While AI has transformed industries, the leap from narrow AI to Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) remains speculative, raising questions about ist feasibility and societal consequences. The essay contrasts the automation of blue-collar labor with the rapid transformation of creative professions, where AI tools like MidJourney and ChatGPT are reshaping workflows. Furthermore, it critically examines whether AI genuinely approximates human cognition or merely simulates intelligence through statistical probability. By tracing the historical and philosophical roots of AI research, this essay argues that human intelligence remains deeply tied to experiential engagement with the world—something machines struggle to replicate. Ultimately, it advocates for a balanced perspective on AI, recognizing both its potential and its limitations in shaping the future of work and creativity.